Everything You Need to Know About Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Fact Checked By Skin Formulations
| Aug 12, 2022
Introduction
When it comes to shampoo, sulfates have long been a standard key ingredient in their formulas. But in recent years, sulfate-free options have been introduced to the market and are certainly gaining in popularity.
If you’re considering making the switch to sulfate-free shampoo and are wondering if you’ll gain any benefits from doing so, keep reading as we reveal essential facts you should know first!
What are sulfates and why are they used in shampoo?
Sulfates are a type of detergent used in many products, including body wash, facial cleansers, toothpaste, and shampoos. They create lather, and in the case of shampoos, clean the hair, removing dirt, oil, and the build-up of styling products.
What are the benefits of sulfate-free shampoo?
There are many benefits to using sulfate-free shampoo. It cleanses the hair gently but effectively without stripping it of its natural oils and causing irritation. Additionally, it can help prevent fading in color-treated hair, reduce frizz, and generally give hair a healthier, shinier appearance.
Who should use sulfate-free shampoo?
A sulfate-free shampoo is a great option for anyone who finds sulfates too harsh on their hair and is ideal for those with a sensitive scalp or skin type. Because it helps preserve hair color, people who dye their hair regularly may want to opt for a sulfate-free brand too, as should individuals whose hair is coarse or prone to frizz.
How to choose the right sulfate-free shampoo for you
When choosing a sulfate-free shampoo, it’s important to consider your hair type. If you have oily hair, look for a brand with clarifying or deep-cleansing properties but if your hair is dry or damaged, choose one with a moisturizing, nourishing formula. Individuals with easily irritated, sensitive skin should opt for one that is fragrance-free and check the list of ingredients to see if the formula contains potential allergens.
How to use sulfate-free shampoo
The first thing you may notice when switching to sulfate-free shampoo is that it doesn’t lather. Often, people mistakenly think this means it’s not working and keep adding more to get it to lather, although this will simply be a waste of shampoo.
You should always wet your hair thoroughly before using any shampoo, but this is particularly important with a sulfate-free formula as it helps activate it and make it easier to distribute properly.
Massage the product into the hair gently, but thoroughly, focusing on the roots where most of the oil and dirt become built up, but without scrubbing or rubbing the scalp. Work the product through to the ends of your hair before rinsing well with cool water.
If your hair is prone to greasiness, you may want to repeat this step, and some manufacturers also recommend allowing the shampoo to sit on the hair for a few minutes.
Follow with a conditioner suitable for your hair type and always use a microfiber wrap to absorb excess water, rather than a regular towel.
Conclusion
To recap, keep the following tips in mind when choosing, and using, a sulfate-free shampoo:
- Ensure that your hair is thoroughly wet before adding the product
- Remember not to expect a sulfate-free shampoo to lather
- Opt for a clarifying or deep cleansing formula if you have oily hair
- Choose a moisturizing or nourishing formula if you have dry or damaged hair
- If your hair is particularly oily, dirty, or you use a lot of styling products, you may want to shampoo it twice or let it sit on your hair for 1-2 minutes
- Be gentle but thorough when massaging the shampoo into your scalp. Avoid scrubbing too hard and focus on the roots rather than the tips
- Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a conditioner to help hydrate and protect your hair
Switching to sulfate-free shampoo may take a little getting used to, especially if you have an oilier hair type, but it is worth doing for most people.
Take some time before you buy to look at a variety of different brands on the market, such as AG Hair Cosmetics, Paul Mitchell, and Nioxin, and keep in mind that you may have to try a few before finding the one that suits you best.
You will indeed have to spend longer massaging the product into your hair (although who doesn’t love a good head massage?) and some people find the lack of lather difficult to become accustomed to. However, with regular use, you’ll also find that your hair is overall healthier with a smoother texture and shinier appearance.
